Kenya passport → Switzerland

Switzerland visa for citizens of Kenya

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds (approx. 100 EUR per day of stay)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Confirm you need a Schengen C visa for tourism and collect all required documents listed above.
2
Complete the visa application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form online or manually, then print and sign it.
3
Book an appointment at the Swiss embassy or VFS Global centre
Schedule an appointment online via VFS Global or the embassy in Nairobi (or nearest location).
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 visa fee plus any service fee (approx. €30) at the time of appointment booking or at the centre.
5
Attend the appointment and submit biometrics
Visit the visa application centre in person to submit your application, provide fingerprints and photo, and hand over documents.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, but may extend up to 30 days in some cases.
7
Collect your passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the centre or have it couriered (if opted).
8
Travel to Switzerland
Ensure your visa is valid for the dates of travel and carry all supporting documents with you.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Download from official website or VFS Global
Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation
Not a paid ticket, but confirmed booking
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement)
For entire stay

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds

Employment

Employment letter or proof of self-employment
Include salary, position, and approved leave
Leave approval letter from employer
If employed

Supporting

Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.)
Optional
If applicable
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary
Brief and clear
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
To show travel history
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay at VFS or embassy
Biometrics appointment confirmation
Book via VFS Global

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: 100 EUR per day of stay

Bank statements for last 3 months
Sponsorship letter if funded by third party

Bank statements must be original or certified copies, showing regular transactions and sufficient balance.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may deny entry even with a valid visa.
Overstaying the 90-day limit can result in fines, deportation, or future visa bans.
Ensure passport has at least 2 blank pages and is valid for 3 months beyond departure.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient financial means

Provide bank statements showing adequate funds for the entire stay.

Lack of travel insurance

Purchase a policy covering at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen area.

Unclear purpose of visit

Write a detailed cover letter and provide a clear itinerary.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Disclose any past issues honestly and provide explanation if needed.

FAQ

Do citizens of Kenya need a visa for Switzerland?

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Kenya stay in Switzerland?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Switzerland visa cost for citizens of Kenya?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Switzerland visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Kenya need for Switzerland?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Switzerland?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home/themen/einreise/visum.html

Sources

sem.admin.ch

Plan your trip to Switzerland

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